IPOB Declares Total Lockdown in South East Over Closure of Anambra Traders’ Shops
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced a total lockdown across the South East on Monday, February 2, in solidarity with traders in Anambra State whose shops were reportedly shut by the state government.
In a statement circulated on Sunday, IPOB said the action was a protest against what it described as the “unjust and punitive” closure of markets affecting Anambra traders. The group accused the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo of targeting traders and worsening economic hardship in the region.
According to IPOB, the lockdown is intended to compel authorities to reverse the decision and allow affected traders to resume business without intimidation. The group urged residents of the South East Nigeria to comply with the sit-at-home order, warning against movement during the protest period.
Reacting, sources within the Anambra State Government maintained that the shop closures were part of ongoing regulatory and sanitation enforcement, insisting the measures were not aimed at victimising traders but at restoring order in designated commercial areas.
Security agencies have advised residents to go about their lawful activities while maintaining vigilance, as tension mounts ahead of Monday.
Meanwhile, traders and residents remain divided, with some backing the protest as a show of solidarity, while others fear economic losses and potential security concerns.
